Gone are the days when transferring files between smartphones and PCs required cumbersome cables. Many users found this method tedious for various reasons, leading to a growing demand for more efficient solutions. Today, with the advent of wireless transfer options such as AirDrop, Phone Link, Link to Windows, and Nearby Share, the need for physical connections has diminished significantly. However, some users still prefer the reliability of cables, appreciating the simplicity of avoiding additional applications.
For those using Windows 10 or 11, the Link to Windows app offers a seamless way to transfer files between Android devices and Windows PCs. This free application from Microsoft enhances connectivity and file sharing capabilities.
The Details
Link to Windows is a free app by Microsoft for Android. It is compatible with all recent Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems. File sharing utilizes the operating system’s built-in share feature.
To begin, users need to download and install the Link to Windows app on their Android device. The installation process is straightforward, paving the way for a smooth connection between the Android device and a Windows PC.
Configure Link to Windows
Setting up the Link to Windows app is simple and can be accomplished in a few easy steps:
- Right-click on a file and select the “Share” option from the context menu.
- Choose “Phone Link” in the Share window.
- Select Android on the Phone Link setup screen.
- Open the Link to Windows app on your Android device.
- Tap “sign in to add computer.”
- Activate “Sign in using the QR code on your PC.”
- Scan the QR Code displayed on the Windows PC with your Android device.
- Select Continue.
- Enter the code shown on the PC into your Android device.
- You may be prompted to enter your Microsoft account password.
- Grant or deny access to specific features, such as SMS, phone calls, or contacts.
- Tap Done to finalize the setup.
Once configured, users can utilize the Share menu to send files between their connected Windows and Android devices effortlessly. This functionality is reciprocal, allowing for easy transfers in both directions. It’s important to note that the setup must be repeated for any additional Windows PCs or Android devices you wish to connect.
Sharing Requirements
To successfully share files between Windows devices and Android using Link to Windows, certain requirements must be met:
- Both devices must be online.
- File transfers occur over Wi-Fi by default; however, Android users can enable “Use mobile data” for transfers over cellular networks.
- Ensure that Phone Link is version 1.24032.156.0 or later.
- Link to Windows app on Android must be version 1.24032.518.0 or later.
Using Phone Link on PC
On the PC side, the Phone Link app allows users to manage certain features of their Android device, contingent on the permissions granted. Even with minimal permissions, users can browse through all photos stored on their Android device. This feature enables saving, sharing, or deleting photos, although it lacks the capability to select and manage multiple photos simultaneously, making bulk actions cumbersome.
For those looking to transfer multiple files at once, it is advisable to utilize a file browser along with the device’s share feature instead.
Do you frequently transfer files between your mobile devices and PCs? What solution do you prefer for this task? We invite you to share your thoughts in the comments below.